You’re feeling miserable with fever, chills, body aches, and fatigue and have determined that you have the flu. While most flu cases are relatively mild, certain symptoms and circumstances do warrant a trip to the doctor. Read on to learn when to seek medical attention for the flu.
If You’re At High Risk
Some people are at increased risk for flu complications like pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death. High-risk groups include adults over 65, pregnant people, young children, and those with underlying health conditions. If you fall into these categories, touch base with a medical provider at the first signs of the flu for evaluation and possible antiviral medication. Getting early flu treatment can prevent your illness from progressing into something more serious.
If You Develop Severe Symptoms
In most cases, the flu causes upper respiratory symptoms like sore throat, cough, and congestion. However, sometimes, the flu can also lead to severe body aches, high fever over 104°F, dehydration, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these more serious symptoms, go to an urgent care clinic for flu treatment. Don’t try to tough it out on your own.
If Symptoms Persist
A typical flu bout lasts about five to seven days, according to Harvard Health. If flu symptoms like fever, fatigue, and coughing last longer than this, check in with your healthcare provider. Prolonged flu symptoms could mean you have a secondary bacterial infection that requires antibiotics. You may also need imaging tests to look for pneumonia complications.
If Home Remedies Aren’t Working
You’ve been getting plenty of rest, drinking fluids, and taking OTC meds like acetaminophen and ibuprofen, but your flu symptoms aren’t budging. Continued high fever, worsening cough, chest pain, earache, and sinus pain are signs that home remedies aren’t cutting it. Your doctor can evaluate your condition and prescribe antiviral meds or other treatment options to help you start feeling better.
Listening to your body and staying in touch with your doctor are key when you have the flu. Though most flu cases aren’t serious, certain circumstances do warrant medical attention. Reach out to a healthcare provider if you’re part of a high-risk demographic, have severe or long-lasting symptoms, or find that your flu is unresponsive to home remedies. If you need prompt flu treatment, don’t hesitate to visit Convenient Urgent Care for help.
